Letter to the Editor: McBride: The kind of person I hope we elect

I am someone who fully believes in the voting process; everyone has the right to vote as they choose. I, however, get concerned when the negative comments come out about good people who want to serve in their communities, no matter which party they represent.

I have known Joe McBride for over 15 years and have worked with him on many occasions and in a variety of capacities. When I hear comments that he is the wrong kind of person to serve as the Chenango County Court Judge, it gives me great concern.

In Joe’s professional capacity, I have observed him in the courtroom and have great respect how he has handled some difficult situations. Joe’s years of experience, in various courts, gives him a strong foundation for the position he is running for. When asked, Joe has always made himself available whether it was to answer questions, provide time out of his busy schedule to accept an assignment or to support a community function. Whenever I have asked, Joe has provided insight and support when it was probably something that could have been very frustrating and took time away from what he really needed to be working on.

The other, more personal side of Joe, is a caring son, husband, father and friend. He takes time to listen, provide whatever support he can, is a person of integrity and empathy. And I have been fortunate to see this side of Joe firsthand.

If I had to stand in a courtroom before a Judge in any capacity, I would expect that he or she would take time to listen, hear both sides of the issues, and to the best of their ability make an informed decision, which in their professional opinion, is right for the situation. That is the kind of person I hope we elect for Chenango County Judge.

I hope that as a county we look at all the candidates; get to know as much about them as you can for yourselves and not just based on what you hear in the advertisements.